Although it’s not something men like to talk about, erectile dysfunction is more common than you think. An Australian survey showed that at least one in five men over the age of 40 has an erection problem, and about one in ten men are unable to have erections.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is a man’s inability to get or maintain an erection that allows sexual activity with penetration. Erectile dysfunction is not a disease, but rather a symptom of either psychological (e.g., anxiety, depression, fatigue) or physiological (e.g., low testosterone, heart disease, diabetes mellitus) issues, or a combination of both.

Having trouble maintaining an erection from time to time isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. Most men will experience occasional failure to get or maintain an erection. This can be caused by stress, tiredness, alcohol, or relationship issues. However, when this issue is ongoing it is important to seek advice as it may be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition that requires treatment.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction can be due to:

Physical causes

The most common physical causes of erectile dysfunction are related to conditions that affect blood pressure and circulation. Heart disease, high cholesterol, obesity, and hypertension can all affect the amount of blood flowing to the penis. Diabetes and cigarette smoking can contribute to erectile dysfunction by causing damage to your nerves and blood vessels.

Psychological causes

Erectile dysfunction that is caused by psychological issues is particularly found in men under 40 years of age. A man’s sexual desire or performance can be affected by emotional turbulence caused by stress at work, relationship troubles, or financial concerns. Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can negatively impact a man’s libido and result in low self-esteem.

Medications

There are numerous medications that can cause erectile dysfunction. In fact, it is estimated that 25% of all erectile dysfunction cases are caused from a side effect of medication. The most common types of medication associated are those that treat high blood pressure, depression, reflux, and heartburn.

What can you do?

Conventional treatment for erectile dysfunction can include a variety of medications or even surgery. Unfortunately, this can come with possible short- or long-term side effects. That is why you may choose to try natural treatments. Thankfully, there are several supplements and herbal medicines available that can help improve erectile dysfunction.

Panex ginseng

Panex ginseng, also known as red or Korean ginseng is a traditional herb that has been used for thousands of years. Studies have shown that Panex ginseng may be helpful in treating erectile dysfunction. It is believed ginseng can benefit erectile dysfunction in numerous ways. Firstly, by promoting endothelial nitric oxide release, which triggers erections by relaxation of the smooth muscles of the penis. Secondly, ginseng benefits cardiovascular health. It helps to improve hypertension, hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia, which are known as important risk factors of erectile dysfunction. Lastly, ginseng is a sexual tonic, where it helps to enhance sexual arousal by increasing energy levels and possibly affecting hormone regulation.

Ginkgo biloba

Best known for boosting brain function, research has also discovered it benefits in improving men’s impotence. Ginkgo can help improve blood flow, which makes it particularly effective in helping cases of erectile dysfunction.  One study found it to be particularly effective in cases of erectile dysfunction due to side effects from certain medications, such as antidepressants. The study found the herb to be 84% effective in treating antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction predominantly caused by selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors.

Tribulus terrestris

Research has shown that Tribulus can increase serum levels of testosterone by stimulating the release of luteinizing hormone and by increasing vasodilatation. A study found men who were taking Tribulus showed increases in or enhancement of libido, erection, ejaculation, sperm health and orgasm.